Can I change the stimulus check answer on my federal taxes after they've been accepted?

[drew316]

I said that I did not receive the 2nd stimulus payment because I received it in 2021 and didn't think it was supposed to go on the 2020 return.

[xmasbaby0]

No you cannot make changes to a tax return that  has been accepted.  The IRS might cross check and catch your mistake---which might delay your refund.   If they do not catch the mistake then you can amend---but not until the return has been fully processed.

[WendyN2 · Accepted solution]

No, you cannot make that change after your return has been accepted by the IRS. You should either file an amended return or wait to see if the IRS makes the correction on their end. They are catching most of these, however, even if they don't catch it before the refund is issued to you (including the additional funds you already received), they WILL catch up to it and come looking for their money - and most likely will charge you interest and penalties. Therefore, as SOON as you receive your refund - check to see if it included the monies you are not actually due. If it does, amend your return immediately!

This is a fairly simple process as you are not actually preparing a whole other return for yourself, just making the correction as needed. It is well worth it! Be sure to WAIT until your return has been fully processed and your refund has been issued before filing the amended, however, as this will only "clog" the system for you. 

[drew316]

Okay, thank you so much for your quick response and help!

[drew316]

Thank you so much for your quick response and information!  It was accepted on February 12th, so I will keep waiting and take care of it immediately!